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3rd September 2010
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Bruniquel, Tarn et GaronneOne of the most beautiful villages in France.jpg) At the southern edge of the Lot and Quercy region, the fortified market town of Bruniquel occupies a magnificent position high above the confluence of the Aveyron and Vère rivers. The ancient houses, the belfry and the ruins of the medieval fortifications are spread out over several levels. Dominating the village is the imposing fortress built by Queen Brunehaut (534-613), daughter to the Visigoth King Athanalgilde and wife of Austrasian King Sigebert, grandson to Clovis. (Austrasia: today's northeastern France and western Germany)  The château, which is open to visitors, was built on 6th century foundations although other buildings date from the 12th and 15th centuries. Benefiting from its geographical situation, the city prospered in the Middle Ages as it constituted a crossing point for the merchants and a halt for the pilgrims on the trail to Santiago de Compostela. The faithful followers were accommodated at the hospital Saint Catherine, opened in 1303.  Many residences are of stone and wooden construction, with half timbered facades and detailed corbelling, some dating from as early as the 14th Century. Evidence of the historical prosperity of Bruniquel can be seen in the decorated turrets, sculptured stone doorways and carved figures. The church was destroyed during the religious wars but was rebuilt in the 17th Century and further altered at the 19th Century.  Located in the department of the Tarn-et-Garonne, 28 km east of Montauban. Other attractions in the area: The gorges of the Aveyron The beautiful village of St Antonin Noble Val The castle of Montricoux and its dungeon. Tourist Office: 05 63 67 29 84 Website: http://brunehaut.free.fr/ has more details about the village and surrounding area (in French)  Autoire Auvillar Bruniquel Cardaillac Carennac Lacapelle Marival Lauzerte Loubressac Montflanquin Poujols le Haut St. Cirq Lapopie © Colin Lawrence Holidays and Leisure Home Page |
  French Public Holidays Did you know that Good Friday is not a public holiday in France? Why not print out our list of holidays for 2010... more... |
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